Using Parks & Reserves

The City of Whitehorse has more than 350 parks, playgrounds and reserves. Many of these locations provide an ideal spot for birthday parties, BBQs, festivals, events, personal training and organised sporting activities.

Please note that Council does not give permission for exclusive use of parks, playgrounds and reserves.

No Notification or Council Approval Required

If your party in the park, BBQ or picnic has fewer than 100 attendees, will use existing park facilities, has BYO catering, doesn’t include the set up of any decorations, marquees, inflatables, petting zoos or any other activities - you do not require a permit and you are not required to notify Council of your plans.

Council Approval Required

If your party, BBQ or picnic has fewer than 100 attendees but you are having one of the following: setting up a marquee, having a jumping castle, petting zoo or food/coffee truck, you will need to notify Council.

If your event exceeds the requirements for Social Gatherings with Extras, and for larger more complex events, organisers are required to obtain an Event Permit by completing an online application form. You will be requested to supply supporting documentation to demonstrate that the event will be produced in a safe and structured manner.

Production companies, students or agencies wishing to film within the City of Whitehorse.

Park Access for Residents Abutting Parks

To protect the community’s infrastructure, applications to access the rear of a property via a park need to be submitted to Council for consideration.

A park access permit must be obtained from Council's ParksWide Department before any vehicle enters a park or reserve. The permit application process is easy to follow and usually takes around seven working days to be reviewed and a permit issued.

Park access is granted only if there is not an alternative way to access your property and there are no adverse impacts on the park or its users. Council reserves the right to reject any application.

Potential expenditure incurred by residents to accommodate alternative access will not be considered as part of the application process.

Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol can be consumed in a park or reserve provided the alcohol is consumed in moderation by the person/s who brought the alcohol into the park or reserve and in accordance with legal age restrictions and other applicable laws in regard to alcohol.

Alcohol must be consumed responsibly and any unruly behaviour towards other park users will not be tolerated.